JONATHAN WALTERS’ contribution to the course remains as strong as ever with Mark Hughes utilising the Republic of Ireland international’s versatility to great effect during his first season in charge.

Despite enduring his lowest goals return since arriving for £2.75 million from Ipswich Town in 2010, the forward has more then played his part in helping the club into the Premier League top-ten at the end of the 2013-14 season as well as amassing a record points haul in the process.

Walters is also a regular fixture on the international scene and the recognition is reward for showing great determination to bounce back in a career which began with Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers, but then saw him drop down to the lower leagues where he played for the likes of Chester City and Wrexham.

The frontman sprung to the attention of several Championship clubs while with Chester and it was Ipswich who eventually paid out £150,000 in 2007.

After a three year spell at Portman Road in which he became skipper of the side, it was Tony Pulis who handed him the chance to climb into the top-flight.

Walters soon caught the eye with his energy and enthusiasm which were major factors in him emerging as joint leading scorer with Kenwyne Jones.

Two of his goals came in the FA Cup semi-final triumph over former club Bolton which led to him then appearing in the Final against Manchester City at Wembley.

He then forged a productive strike partnership with Peter Crouch in his second season at the Britannia Stadium as he reached double figures once again and played his part in the Club’s progress to the Round of 32 in the Europa League.